HomeMy WebLinkAboutprotecting-immigrant-rights-public-charge-3-things-you-need-to-know-english-2025Some people who apply for a green card or a visa to enter the U.S. must pass a
“public charge” test. In those cases, immigration officials look at whether the person
will mostly depend on the government for support in the future.
The Trump Administration has recently proposed a change to this test, but it is not
in place yet. Three important things immigrant families need to know about public
charge are:
MOST PEOPLE DO NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT PUBLIC CHARGE AT ALL
PUBLIC CHARGE
3 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW November
2025
●Public charge does not apply to everyone.
●If you already have a green card, or do not currently have a pathway to getting one, this does not
affect you.
●Only people seeking a green card primarily through a family member or who seek to enter the US
from outside the country may be subject to this test.
●Many immigrants, such as refugees and asylees, are exempt from a public charge test when they
apply for a green card.
1
SOME PUBLIC BENEFITS MAY BE CONSIDERED.2
●As of November 19, 2025, the Trump administration has proposed ending the Biden public charge
rule, but has not explained what will replace it. This makes it hard to know how officials will
consider public benefits when they review a green card application in the future.
●For now, the Biden rule is still in place. Food, housing, and most healthcare programs are not
considered.
●If you are currently receiving public benefits, stopping them now won’t likely affect your public
charge determination, but only you know what is best for your family’s future.
●If you are applying for a green card, or may wish to apply in the future, consult your attorney.
PUBLIC CHARGE IS NOT JUST ABOUT BENEFITS3
●Immigration officials must look at a person’s circumstances as a whole, not just whether the
person used government programs.
●This includes whether a family member or another person with enough income or resources
has promised to support you. That “affidavit of support” and other positive factors can help
even if you have used government programs in the past.